Bath, 2025-12-20 01:57:00 — An 88-year-old man has been spared jail after admitting to smothering his wife in their Bath home.
William Haxworth, 88, received a two-year supervision order after admitting to the death of his wife, Delia Haxworth, 87, in June of last year.
- William Haxworth was deemed unfit to stand trial for murder.
- Judge William Hart cited Haxworth’s “genuine belief” that his wife was suffering from a terminal illness.
- Haxworth will be overseen by both a probation officer and a clinical supervisor for two years.
William Haxworth killed his wife, Delia Haxworth, at their home in Upper Lansdown Mews, Bath, in June last year, according to court documents. The couple had been married for more than 60 years.
Circumstances of the Death
Haxworth was spotted by members of the public threatening to jump from scaffolding on June 18, 2024, and told those attempting to help him that he had murdered his wife, stating she had been “very ill” and adding, “I had to kill her and now it’s my turn.”
Police found Mrs. Haxworth “lifeless” on a bed when they arrived at the couple’s home, according to the court. A note, believed to be written by Haxworth, was also discovered, reading: “It all became too much. Please forgive me and wonderful Dil. It all seemed lacking in point. You’ve all been so wonderful too. And so many kind neighbours. Forgive. Forgive. Will.”
A post-mortem examination revealed that Mrs. Haxworth had been smothered, the court heard. Mrs. Haxworth had been hospitalized around three weeks prior to her death after a fall and head injury, but those injuries were not believed to have contributed to her death. She had previously been treated for bowel cancer, but there was no evidence of recurrence.
Judge’s Ruling and Sentencing
At Bristol Crown Court on Friday, Judge William Hart determined that Haxworth was unfit to stand trial and did not require a jury to decide on his guilt or innocence. Judge Hart described the case as “tragic” and stated that Haxworth had a “genuine belief” that his wife was suffering from a terminal illness.
Judge Hart also noted that Haxworth had made another attempt on his life since the proceedings began, resulting in a period of hospitalization. “I want to express my condolences to all who cared for and loved Delia, and indeed to all those who care for and love you,” Judge Hart said.
Haxworth was sentenced to a two-year supervision order, under which he will be overseen by both a probation officer and a clinical supervisor.
Time.news based this report in part on reporting by Sky News and added independent analysis and context.
